Domantas Sabonis is expected to return to the Sacramento Kings lineup Friday after a 27-game absence. The All-Star forward suffered a partially torn meniscus in his left knee but opted against surgery, completing a two-month rehab. He's listed as questionable but should play against the Washington Wizards.

Sabonis comes back at a pivotal moment for the struggling Kings. The team is 11-30 but has won three straight games to open a long homestand. His return provides a major boost to Sacramento's frontcourt, though the franchise remains near the bottom of the Western Conference standings.

The timing is crucial with the Feb. 5 trade deadline approaching. Sabonis has three years and $136.3 million left on his contract. Under new general manager Scott Perry, the rebuilding Kings have been open to discussing trades for all their high-priced veterans, making Sabonis a name to watch.